WHWS DJ Interns with Steven Colbert

This summer, Megan Ross ’17 was selected as one of 17 undergraduate interns for “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” the nightly talk show watched by millions of people each week. Based at the Ed Sullivan Theatre in New York City, “The Late Show” has, along with its usual sketches and live musical performances, a star-studded list of guests that ranges from Vice President Joe Biden to Will Farrell.

“As I began applying to internships, I knew that I wanted to be in New York City, and I hoped that I could be on a television show,” says Ross, who is double majoring in English and media and society. “I was looking for something that was either scripted, nightly, or live … I ended up experiencing all three at ‘The Late Show’!”

Ross worked as an intern with the show’s house band, music talent and digital departments, along with assisting in show preparation. Her activities included hiring and scheduling talent for the nightly performances in the Ed Sullivan Theatre.

“I’ve gotten to work in different departments and see how they all connect with one another, and I’ve seen all that must come together before the taping begins in order to have a smooth running show,” she says. “I’ve even been able to be on television twice, which I really did not expect at all!”

Ross explains that her experiences at HWS helped to provide crucial context to the internship. In particular, she cites courses such as “The History of Television” in teaching her to look for the “innate details” that go into producing a finished show. In addition to her double major, Ross is also pursuing concentrations in creative writing, film, television and new media.

Ross says it was persistence that helped her land the opportunity to intern for “The Late Show.” “The people here literally make a show happen once a day, and things can get incredibly busy. After applying online, I would give them a call and ask for an interview. Things such as a thank you note will make you both memorable and remind the department that you are truly interested,” she says.

At HWS, Ross is a member of WHWS 105.7FM and co-hosts a radio show, “That’s What She Said,” with Nicole Harrington ’17.